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gunlock

American  
[guhn-lok] / ˈgʌnˌlɒk /

noun

  1. the mechanism of a firearm by which the charge is exploded.


gunlock British  
/ ˈɡʌnˌlɒk /

noun

  1. the mechanism in some firearms that causes the charge to be exploded

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of gunlock

First recorded in 1645–55; gun 1 + lock 1


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Taylor had previously told police she believed the gun was in her purse, secured with a trigger lock, and that the gunlock key was under her bedroom mattress.

From BBC ● Aug. 15, 2023

She said she kept the gunlock key under her bedroom mattress.

From Seattle Times ● Aug. 14, 2023

"Well, snap my gunlock, if it isn't Jack Darrow!" exclaimed Andy.

From Through Space to Mars Or the Longest Journey on Record by Roy Rockwood

The latter, with his gunlock in one hand and a greasy rag in the other, looked at the tempting morsel, opened his mouth, and the deed was done.

From Si Klegg, Book 3 (of 6) Si And Shorty Meet Mr. Rosenbaum, The Spy, Who Relates His Adventures by John McElroy

He leaped instantly to the shelter of a great trunk and his hand sprang to his gunlock, but no other sound followed, and he wondered.

From The Eyes of the Woods A story of the Ancient Wilderness by Joseph A. (Joseph Alexander) Altsheler

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